Solstice

So 2016 has been a kind of shit year for a lot of people. And the world in general. But the days are going to get brighter (a least in the literal sense) because today is the winter Solstice. It may be the darkest night of the year, but tomorrow the days start to get just a little bit longer.

I always look fondly on the Solstice because a dear friend of mine used to have the most wonderful Solstice parties. We’d all gather with good food, drink, song, and a warm fire. On the mantle above the fire were little pieces of paper for us to write the things we wanted to leave in the year behind us. Once we wrote them down, we threw the paper into the fire. It was a beautiful ritual and something I miss.

But we can can continue the tradition together! Here’s how:

Solstice Ritual Instructions

Take a moment to create a calm space. Put on some soothing music. Burn some sage. Put away your mobile device.

Write down things that you would like to leave in this year we are leaving behind. Maybe it’s a negative mindset. Or a relationship you need to release. Maybe it’s an ailment that can see it’s way out. What doesn’t serve you anymore and can be released? This is just between you and the Solstice.

Burn that shit. Take those pieces of paper and put them in your safe and well ventilated fire source. They have no space in your life moving forward.

As we all make our goals and resolutions for the new year, let’s take a moment to reflect on the things we are willing to let go of. After all, how can we make room for the new goodness that’s ahead without cleaning house a bit?

Most of all, whether or not you partake in the ritual above, be gentle with yourself today. We have made it halfway through the dark, and that counts for something. Celebrate with good company (your own or with others), and raise a glass to the light that is coming our way.

May your holidays be filled with joy, love, safety, and lots of good food.